No security threat centring 21 February: DMP, RAB chiefs

There is no security threat surrounding the observance of International Mother Language Day on 21 February, said Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali, commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) as well as AKM Shahidur Rahman, director general of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).

A briefing around 11am today (20 February) at the Central Shaheed Minar premises, the DMP commissioner said multi-layered security measures have been put in place for the observance. In addition to regular police forces, SWAT, dog squads and bomb disposal teams will remain on standby. A sufficient number of volunteers will also be deployed alongside police personnel.

He requested the public to follow the designated route — via Palashi intersection and Jagannath Hall crossing — to enter the Shaheed Minar to pay homage. No other routes will be allowed for entry. After paying tribute, visitors may exit through Doel Chattar crossing or Chankharpul.

He also urged people not to bring sharp objects, flammable materials or explosives to the Shaheed Minar premises.

For security reasons, certain traffic diversions will be enforced in the Dhaka University area from the evening onward. Teachers, students, officials and staff of the university have been asked to comply with the directives.

The DMP commissioner added that the president, the prime minister, other key state dignitaries and foreign diplomats will be the first to place wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar. The monument will then be opened to the public at around 12:40am.

Meanwhile, RAB DG AKM Shahidur Rahman also said there is no security threat centring 21 February, though all necessary preparations have been taken.

Speaking at a separate briefing at the Central Shaheed Minar premises at 11am on Friday, he said RAB forces have been deployed in coordination with other law enforcement agencies.

"Our forces have been stationed at both the inner and outer perimeters. The area has been thoroughly swept. Our bomb disposal team will remain on standby," he said, adding that the entire area has been brought under surveillance through 64 CCTV cameras.

He expressed confidence that with the level of security measures taken, the programme would conclude peacefully. Adequate security arrangements have also been ensured across the country, he added.

Referring to the successful completion of the recent election, the RAB chief said the country's law and order situation would continue to improve gradually. "We will not allow any activities in the name of movements or demands that cause suffering to the general public or hold them hostage. We want people to move freely without disruption," he said.